Odd refers to random and also to strangeness.
Films and books about misfits attract me because I relate well to being an
outsider and repel me because usually the artist is so better fit into society
than his creations that it makes me wander if it's not patronizing or
exploration. The latter is not exactly rational: you create what you can, and
if it's not an exercise and show of skills, than it's authentic work.
Anyway,
This film made me miss the presence of Philip Seymour Hoffman, the
sensitive, multi-faceted actor, here a director as well, in the cinema.
The story sheds light on low class people who
struggle to make a living, to love despite the difficulties, temptations and
fear, and in the shy Jack and the neurotic Connie cases even to express
themselves in words.
Jack (Hoffman) and Clyde (Jhn Orotz) drive
limos. If at first Clyde is more social, already married, and a good friend and
Jack is a complete ill-fit everywhere. Slowly, while their friendships
strengthens, however, Jack seems to be the one who'll find true love, a better
job and happiness.
If it sounds a bit of a cliche, well, it is. A
bit. But it consists of many beautiful moments, exploration of intimacy and of
alienation, and everyone acts extremely well.
On the whole, then, it's worth watching for
what it does well.
Director:
Philip Seymour Hoffman
Writers (WGA):
Robert Glaudini (screenplay)
Robert Glaudini (play)
Cast
Philip Seymour Hoffman ... Jack
John Ortiz ... Clyde
Richard Petrocelli ... Uncle Frank
Thomas McCarthy ... Dr. Bob Thomas (as Tom
McCarthy)
Amy Ryan ... Connie
Daphne Rubin-Vega ... Lucy
Salvatore Inzerillo ... Cannoli
And others
